Dangerous Dogs

Threat to the Safety and Welfare of Citizens

Potentially dangerous and vicious dogs have become a serious and widespread threat to the safety and welfare of citizens in Merced County. In recent years, they have assaulted without provocation and seriously injured numerous individuals, particularly children, and have killed numerous dogs, cats, and other animals. Many of these attacks have occurred in public places.

County Ordinance

The number and severity of these attacks are attributable to the failure of owners to register, confine, and properly control vicious and potentially dangerous dogs.

Merced County Animal Control has enacted an ordinance to deal with this threat to public health and safety posed by vicious and potentially dangerous dogs. We take this matter seriously and are committed to dealing with both animals and owners to the fullest extent of the law.

Be a Responsible Pet Owner

Owners of dogs deemed potentially dangerous or vicious may lose their animal and be subject to stiff fines, penalties, and fees. Be a responsible pet owner and keep your dog confined or under control at all times.